Boyton Canyon

Boyton Canyon

The trail starts out of the parking lot wide and easy. In about 150 yards the fork at Deadman’s Pass is off to the right, so go left. Another 300 yards will bring you to the fork at Kachina Maiden Spire, a purported Vortex, stay left and you are on your way.

The trail can be somewhat noisy as it skirts around Enchantment resort. Not to worry though, as your focus should be consumed by the shapely walls of the canyon, which you can see very well as you gain elevation.

After about 3/4 mile the trail will drop back down to the canyon floor where the walking is pleasant and easy. As you hike, take note of the variety of forbes, shrubs and trees that live here. Soon you will be encapsulated, as if in a tunnel of plant life, straining to see the views.

The trail bends to the west and opens up into a stand of Ponderosa Pine. In the winter this area can hold snow pretty well. In the summer it could be the coolest spot going. Another 3/8 mile and your at the end of the trail looking up at the east side of Bear Mountain.

If your new to hiking Sedona, this trail is a must.

Below is what the Coconino National Forest website has to say.
Or you can go to their page by clicking “Here”

Boynton Canyon is one of the most scenic of the box canyons that make Arizona Red Rock Country so famous. This particular trail enjoys the additional advantage of being conveniently accessible to nearby towns on well paved roads. As you might suspect, that is both good and bad news for those who choose to come here. The good news is you don’t have to bounce down a dusty jeep track to get to the trailhead. The bad news is you may have more company than you hoped for when you arrive.

Boynton Canyon always has been popular for its outstanding scenery. Lately it has become even more so, since it developed a reputation as a site of a New Age “vortex” – a sort of energy field emanating from inner earth. Whether or not you subscribe to this bit of modern mysticism, you’ll no doubt agree that some sort of magic exists here among the towering buttes, crimson cliffs, and natural desert gardens.

The trail starts out by skirting a luxury resort that was recently built here. It quickly returns to the canyon floor where the walking is pleasant and easy. As you hike, take note of the variety of plants that live in this rather harsh environment, and keep an eye out for the area’s plentiful wildlife which includes everything from colorful songbirds to bristling, shy whitetail deer.

Directions: Go West through Sedona to Dry Creek Road at the southwest end of town. Turn north (right) on Dry Creek Road and follow the signs to Boynton Canyon. You’ll find a parking lot and the trailhead just outside the entrance to the Enchantment Resort.

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About the Hiker

Chuck Quigley has lived in the Verde Valley for the last 32 years. The reason for staying is the unbeatable outdoor experience around Sedona and the greater Central Arizona Area. I believe it to be the true "Heart" of the state. It is my hope to share the hidden secrets and far away places with you. [Read More …]